4 Ways to a Healthier Weekend For Life Long Results

We all want to have summertime fun; with fairs, music concerts, weekends at the cabin, it's hard to not just let everything fall by the wayside on the weekend; but studies are showing that just being a little more conscientious can make a huge difference on your overall long-term health...enough that I'm going to try to stick to this simple guide.

STEP ONE- SLEEPING IN THROWS OFF YOUR INTERNAL CLOCK

Remember the days of being a teenager? There was nothing better than sleeping til noon on a Saturday. But it's probably NOT a good idea to do this as an adult. Getting up at your regular time is going to keep your internal clock on schedule, according to the National Sleep Foundation. You can still sleep in an extra hour, but varying your sleep schedule by no more than one hour on the weekends is best.

STEP TWO- FIND TIME TO EXERCISE AT LEAST ONCE ON THE WEEKEND

I make it a point to get at least two serious exercise sessions in a week; and then try to find time to walk; dance; or just get up and clean the house on the weekend.

We are supposed to get a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate to intense activity; or 75 minutes of vigorous activity every week.

Even if you're too busy to exercise during the week, catching up on the weekend works!

Researchers found that those who met physical activity guidelines were 30 percent less likely to die from any cause during the nine-year study period, in comparison with people who didn't get ANY exercise. That means YOU can do it!

STEP 3- GET TOGETHER WITH A FRIEND OR FRIENDS AND SOCIALIZE

Even if you're a little non social, even getting together with a couple friends on the weekend is good for you.

STEP 4- WATCH WHAT YOU EAT AND DRINK

I know. We all say it. Calories don't count on the weekends. You know that's a myth right? You really can overdo it; having a few more drinks than normal; cooking out; going out to eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner...eating at Moms for dinner on Sunday afternoon. Really watch what you're doing. Enjoy your weekend; but try to pay attention to what you're eating and drinking. Those extra calories over time can really do a body damage.